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Five tips for a scary-cheap Halloween

Is Halloween getting more expensive? According to a recent survey from RetailMeNot.ca, 80% of Canadians believe it seems that way. It's not just the candy - it's the costumes, the parties and the decorations.

Here are a few tips on how to do it on the cheap:

(All images via Fotolia)

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1. Set a budget

Just like Christmas, the best way to make sure you don't end up spending too much money on Halloween is to set a pot of money aside, and work within it.

How much will depend on the size of your family, your disposable income and what your plans are.

According to a RetailMeNot.ca survey, younger Canadians - those aged 18-34 - are planning to spend the most on the occasion this year, with an average of $75.

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2. Be selective about activities

Over the years, Halloween has been amplified into a lengthy, multi-activity bonanza. It used to be a day - now Halloween is more of a season.

If cash is tight, you can make the most of your money by listing your potential Halloween activities and then prioritizing the things you want to do the most, whether it's carving a pumpkin with the family (cheap) or making sure you have the spookiest front yard on the block (pricey).

If you are buying a costume for your pet, well, we hope you didn't have to use a credit card for that.

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3. Embrace DIY

Halloween is an occasion where do-it-yourselfers and crafters can reap serious rewards. For parties, consider making your own treats and decorations. A quick Google or Pinterest search can give you all the inspiration you need for interesting crafts and fun seasonal eats.

For costumes, whip out the sewing machine and the scissors if you're handy with 'em. Click the next slide for more cheap costume tips.

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4. Seek costume savings

The costume can be the most expensive part of Halloween for adults and kids alike.

The pre-made department store costumes are often expensive, yet cheaply made, but there are plenty of alternatives out there.

Depending on what the costume idea is, it might be possible to repurpose items found around the house - including makeup and accessories - or go on a thrift store adventure with the kids.

Borrowing items from a friend or family member - including costumes from previous years - is also a good way to build a costume without spending a lot.

When weighing choices, consider the fact that this is an outfit you or your family members will likely only wear once.

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5. Buy for next year

On Nov. 1, all of the Halloween stuff gets slashed in price, and even if you are sick of orange and black at that point, there are opportunities to get costumes and decorations for next year at a steep discount.

This is also a good way to stockpile treats for your household - just so long as you don't plan on giving them out to next year's trick-or-treaters.